Thoracic aortic stent graft deployment device

Abstract

A stent graft deployment device adapted for release of a distal end (29) of a stent graft (25) before the proximal end (27) of the stent graft (25). The arrangement (15) allows movement of at least part of the deployment catheter (23) independently of movement of a proximal end release mechanism has a fixed handle (16) associated with a trigger wire release mechanism (6) and a sliding handle (17) to which the deployment catheter and a capsule (21) are fixed. The sliding handle (17) is mounted on the fixed handle (16) and can slide longitudinally with respect to the fixed handle (16).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 392,667, filed Jun. 28, 2002. This application is also related to provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 391,737, filed Jun. 26, 2002, and entitled “Stent-Graft Fastening Arrangement.”TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]This invention relates to a device for the deployment of a stent graft within the aorta and particularly in relation to deployment within the thoracic aorta.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Throughout this specification when referring to deployment of a stent graft or prosthesis within the aorta of a patient the term proximal will be used for that end of both the deployment device and the stent graft at that end which is closer to the heart of a patient and the term distal will be used for that end of the deployment device or stent graft which in use is furthest from the heart. When applied to other vessels corresponding terms such as caudal and cranial should be unders...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013]There may be an arrangement which prevents movement of the sliding handle with respect to the moving handle until this movement is required. This arrangement may be provided by a thumbscrew fixed to the sliding handle which engages against a portion of the fixed handle to prevent inadvertent or early movement of the sliding handle with respect to the fixed handle. The thumbscrew is removed when it is desired to move the sliding handle.

[0014]There may also be provided a mechanism which prevents the deployment catheter from being moved forward after an initial movement back. Such a mechanism may be provided by a spring loaded pin or plunger mechanism on

Problems solved by technology

This can be done with a capsule, which covers the exposed stent, but there is a problem.

When withdrawing the capsule, a proximal end retention system, whic

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